Chapter 773

After the meeting, Preston Sinclair studied Floyd's expression carefully.

"Uncle William, it's getting late. I apologize for disturbing you tonight. I'll make it up to you another time."

Preston prepared to leave.

William Sterling gave a slow nod, his earlier hostility noticeably softened. His anger had now been redirected entirely toward that despicable Nathan Blackwood.

"Of course. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need anything. We're family."

William shot Lucas a pointed look. Understanding immediately, Lucas stood and gestured toward the door.

"Mr. Sinclair, allow me."

Preston cast one last lingering glance at Evelyn before nodding and turning to leave.

When Lucas returned, he couldn't hold back any longer. His voice dripped with venom.

"What the hell is that bastard thinking? Does he have a death wish? Acting all noble on the surface while stabbing us in the back—what a goddamn hypocrite!"

The butler tried to intervene, but Lucas was too fired up.

Evelyn, meanwhile, remained eerily calm, stroking Leo's fur absently as if completely unbothered.

Leo stretched lazily and blinked up at her. "Mama, can we watch the stars tonight?"

Her dressing room's balcony was sealed, but the ceiling was made of smart glass.

With advanced 3D projection, it could simulate any season or weather, transforming the space into whatever she desired.

Lying on the floor, she could gaze up at a breathtakingly realistic night sky—stars glittering, the moon luminous.

It was the perfect way to clear her mind.

"I think that's a great idea," she murmured. Then, turning to her father, she added, "It's late. I should head up. Don't waste your energy being angry, Dad. We'll have our chance to strike back."

Her smile was icy.

She wasn't unaffected—she just knew rage wouldn't solve anything.

William waved her off. "Be careful. Lucas will stay in the room next to yours. Call him if you need anything."

Lucas smirked. "Yeah, scream if you have to." Just please don't pull another all-nighter plotting revenge.

Evelyn chuckled. "Goodnight, Dad."

Lucas wheeled her to the elevator, then released her chair once they reached her floor.

Her room was fully automated, and with Leo's help, she only needed to voice her commands.

Leo bounded ahead eagerly, triggering the door to slide open.

Lucas hesitated before leaving. "So… what’s the plan for dealing with Nathan? Just—don’t do anything reckless, okay?"

His sister had many talents, but impulse control wasn’t one of them.

Evelyn met his gaze. The cold intensity in her eyes sent a shiver down his spine. Her voice was soft but razor-sharp.

"I’ll bide my time. And when the moment comes… I’ll destroy him."

Lucas exhaled sharply.

His lips twitched. Seeing her reaction, he almost pitied Nathan. Almost.

A slow grin spread across his face as he patted her shoulder.

"Lil E, I have no doubt you’ll crush that bastard under your heel on your way to becoming the richest woman alive."

Evelyn ignored his dramatic declaration. Lucas had always had a flair for the theatrical.

Just then, her phone buzzed. Nathan’s name flashed on the screen.

Well, well… He’s calling me first.

Lucas took the hint and stepped back, exhaling deeply.

"If you need me, I’m right next door. Sleep in tomorrow—I’ll make you breakfast."

Hands in his pockets, he sauntered off.

Evelyn stared at the caller ID, her expression darkening.

Nathan Blackwood… I should’ve known.

If even Sterling Enterprises couldn’t suppress the trending scandal, the culprit had to be someone with equal power.

Who else but Blackwood Industries? She’d been too slow to connect the dots.

Nathan’s sweet words had dulled her instincts.

The ringing continued, echoing through the silent room.